The container shipping industry continues to evolve through major structural changes while facing uncertainties in the global trade along with new developments, such as the impending sulfur cap regulations. The volatility of this challenging and quick-changing business environment plus the pressing need of carriers to differentiate their services in the face of ongoing commoditization pressures remains unchanged.
More than ever, the solution most probably lies in emerging value-added services. These services allow carriers to excel and appeals to customers through unique and innovative approaches.
Value-added services can be manifested in many ways. They can improve schedule reliably (a recent example achieved this by adding vessels to the existing rotation) or through innovative services such as monitoring and providing all-encompassing solutions to high-value cargo. In addition, providing a unique, overall customer experience, combining fast digitized solutions while preserving a personal touch are an important aspect of the customer interface.
All things being equal, the emphasis on high-quality service may well be the tipping point to persuade a customer to choose one carrier over another.